Maryland’s New Ignition Interlock Law: What You Need to Know After a DUI/DWI Arrest

The Maryland legislature recently passed a bill that will significantly impact DUI and DWI cases beginning later this year. Under House Bill (HB) 105, installation of an ignition interlock device will become mandatory not only for individuals who are convicted and sentenced to probation but also for those who accept probation before judgment (PBJ). The new bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Maryland DUI/DWI Cases

When facing a DUI or DWI charge in Maryland, your case can be resolved in several ways. Of course, the best-case scenario is having your charge dismissed entirely. But, if this isn’t feasible under the circumstances at hand, then your next best option is to focus on minimizing the consequences of your arrest. In many cases, this means seeking probation before judgment.

With a standard probation before judgment*, you plead guilty—but your guilty plea does not result in a conviction. Instead, you are placed on probation, and as long as you complete the terms of your probation successfully, you will not have the stain of a conviction on your permanent record. This has three key benefits:

• You will not have points added to your driver’s license;
• Your auto insurance rates will most likely not increase as a result of your DUI or DWI, and,
• You will be able to state that you have not been convicted on job applications and during job interviews.

Understanding the Costs and Consequences of Ignition Interlock Device Installation

Under HB 105, ignition interlock device installation will become mandatory for anyone who receives probation for a DUI or DWI in Maryland–including anyone who receives probation before judgment. If you receive probation under the new law, you will need to pay a monthly fee for the device and its installation to legally drive. With a three-year probation term, this will add thousands of dollars to the cost of your DUI or DWI. If you drive for a living (or if you want to drive for a living), having an ignition interlock restriction on your license can also prevent you from maintaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL)-which can further add to the costs of your arrest.

As a result, once Maryland’s new ignition interlock law takes effect, it will be even more important to consider the implications of accepting probation before judgment in a DUI or DWI case. To ensure that you are making informed decisions, you should speak with an experienced defense lawyer as soon after your arrest as possible.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation with Defense Lawyer Cynthia Christiani

Do you need to know more about the risks of facing a DUI or DWI charge in Maryland? If so, we encourage you to contact us promptly. To schedule a confidential consultation with defense lawyer Cynthia Christiani, please call 443-405-8211 or tell us how we can reach you online today.